The U.S. election result is a sobering reminder that people want systems change. So many people’s lived experience today is of a system that is not working for them. This result is a vote against the status quo, and it will no doubt entail radical reform in the United States.
At the same time, the climate and environmental crisis will not go on hold for the next four years. The breakdown in resilience of the global commons that are vital for all life will continue to impact the cost of living and the safety of people’s homes and livelihoods.
Radical reform that does not include safeguards for the global commons will damage the U.S. economy, and its citizens won’t stand for that for long. This election was won largely on economic promises and we should remind ourselves that the economy relies entirely on global commons that are thriving.
Action that safeguards the global commons therefore remains in every nation, every city, every business and every community’s self interest. Inaction is retreat and will ultimately lead to defeat, with devastating consequences. Because of this unequivocal reality, most of the rest of the world is moving forward to decarbonise, to halt and reverse nature loss, and to improve aspects of social justice for citizens.
The Global Commons Alliance partners are all mission driven, and working to ensure a safe and just future for us all. This seismic election result may set us back, but it cannot and will not hold us back. Our work now must make a special effort to reach across divides, across sectors and borders to show just how much value there is for everyone in a future that is both safe and just. In Cali at COP16 we heard this particular call to action—to reach across divides—loud and clear from all sectors and from Indigenous Peoples.
At the Earthshot Prize in South Africa, where Jane Madgwick our Executive Director is currently attending as a Nature advisor, innovations to connect and scale solutions for our global commons are abundant, and an extraordinarily positive energy is flowing. In times of darkness there are always rays of light. Focusing on these is crucial. The work for a Safe and Just future goes on.
